Introduction to Active vs Passive Voice

Active vs. Passive Voice (Simple Guide)

1. Basic Example

• Active: The dog chased the cat. (The subject does the action.)

• Passive: The cat was chased by the dog. (The subject receives the action.)

2. Clear vs. Wordy

• Active: The scientist discovered a new element. (Short and strong.)

• Passive: A new element was discovered by the scientist. (Longer and less direct.)

3. When the Doer Doesn’t Matter

• Active: The committee made several decisions. (We know who did it.)

• Passive: Several decisions were made. (Focus is on the decisions, not who made them.)

4. Stronger Writing

• Active: The teacher explained the lesson. (Clear and simple.)

• Passive: The lesson was explained by the teacher. (Extra words make it weaker.)